Acupuncture Bellmore originated in China to balance the flow of the life force energy. The belief is by inserting extremely thin needles into specific parts of the body along the meridians (pathways which the energy flows through) you will rebalance your life energy flow. Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This boosts the body’s natural pain killers and increases blood flow.
Occasionally a very low electrical current is also applied to promote further stimulation. These practices have been done for 5,000 years in Chinese medicine and are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. There are six commonly used sizes of needles today. In conjunction with inserting the needle into the skin there are several techniques used to relieve ailments. The angle of the needle at each point can create a different effect. Generally the needles are inserted between 15 and 90 degree angles to the skin. The acupuncturist may also influence the needle to encourage stimulation. This would include thrusting the needle, rotating, plucking or scraping. The patient will often have a sensation during the acupuncture procedure, which is necessary. There should not however be any pain associated with acupuncture.
Practitioners are still baffled as to how acupuncture actually works but it’s benefits are undeniable. It has been shown to raise triglycerides, white blood counts and anti-body levels. Acupuncture also stimulates endorphins, and affects serotonin and noradrenalin. It promotes circulation by dilating blood vessels. Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of acupuncture is the “Gate Theory.” This theory is based on evidence that there is a portion of your nervous system (the gate) which controls the sensation of pain. If there is too much pain stimulation the gate receptors become flooded. The gate can only acknowledge a certain threshold of pain. If the gate becomes hectic it will block certain pain transmissions being received. Acupuncture successfully floods the gate so pain is diminishes.
Whether you are using acupuncture to alleviate pain or a symptom of the several other ailments it is used for be sure to pick a practitioner who is knowledgeable and uses proper sterilization practices. There is a risk for bleeding and infection if the proper precautions are not taken.